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On September 17, 2025, the European Commission proposed suspending parts of its trade agreement with Israel and sanctioning far-right Israeli ministers over the Gaza conflict. The EU plans to freeze €20 million in bilateral support to Israel, targeting exports worth €6 billion. However, divisions among member states, including Germany and Italy, threaten the adoption of these measures amid escalating violence in Gaza and recent Israeli strikes in Qatar.
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The EU is seeking China to relax export controls on rare earths and magnets amid escalating trade tensions. China has responded with export restrictions on Nexperia, a Dutch chipmaker with Chinese ownership, citing national security concerns. Diplomatic efforts are underway to resolve the dispute and stabilize supply chains.
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EU leaders are preparing to discuss potential measures against China’s recent export restrictions on rare earths and battery materials. The European Commission signals readiness to activate its anti-coercion tools, amid concerns over supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions. A new plan aims to diversify critical material sources and strengthen technological independence.
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UK government officials and Labour figures are increasingly discussing the possibility of rejoining the EU's customs union to boost economic growth. While official policies remain unchanged, informal talks suggest a shift towards closer relations, driven by economic pressures and the desire for better trade terms. The debate highlights ongoing tensions over Brexit's impact.